Insights into modification of lignocellulosic fillers with isophorone diisocyanate: structure, thermal stability and volatile organic compounds emission assessment

Abstract

This study presents an analysis of the structure and properties of different types of lignocellulosic fillers modified by isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) to provide insights into the possibility of their application to the manufacturing of wood polymer composites (WPCs). Moreover, it deals with the environmental aspects of modified fillers, by assessment of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted during modification, as well as from final products. Three types of commercially available lignocellulosic fillers were modified with different content of IPDI (from 1 to 15 wt%) using the internal mixer. The main compounds detected in the air during modifications were terpenes and terpenoids. No IPDI was detected, which is very beneficial considering its toxicity. On the other hand, IPDI was emitted from modified fillers at a slightly elevated temperature of 40 °C, which was associated with a significant rise in its vapor pressure. Successful modification of fillers was confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. Performed modifications of lignocellulosic fillers with IPDI had a relatively small impact on their particle size and color properties. Such an effect can be considered beneficial for the mechanical performance and appearance of WPCs, which could be potentially manufactured using IPDI-modified lignocellulosic fillers.

Insights into the Thermo-Mechanical Treatment of Brewers’ Spent Grain as a Potential Filler for Polymer Composites

“…This chemical is applied industrially as a plant growth regulator by farmers [ 53 ]. Therefore, it was not detected in our previous work related to the cellulose and wood flour obtained mostly from the processing of conifers [ 54 ].…”

“…This chemical is applied industrially as a plant growth regulator by farmers [53]. Therefore, it was not detected in our previous work related to the cellulose and wood flour obtained mostly from the processing of conifers [54]. limonene was classified as 3, which is related to serious temporary or moderate residual injuries caused by short exposure.…”

“…This chemical is applied industrially as a plant growth regulator by farmers [53]. Therefore, it was not detected in our previous work related to the cellulose and wood flour obtained mostly from the processing of conifers [54]. Considering the NFPA 704 standard, the health threats of detected compounds are classified mostly as 1 or 2, indicating that intense or chronic exposures may cause temporary incapacitation, possible residual injuries, or irritation with only minor effects.…”

“…This chemical is applied industrially as a plant growth regulator by farmers [53]. Therefore, it was not detected in our previous work related to the cellulose and wood flour obtained mostly from the processing of conifers [54]. Nevertheless, despite the low risk to human health, the biodegradability of 2,6-diisopropylnaphthalene is very limited, so it can accumulate in plants and contaminate the natural environment [55].…”

Granulometric Characterization of Wood Dust Emission from CNC Machining of Natural Wood and Medium Density Fiberboard

“…Several studies reported very similar particle size distributions between pine and oak; others reported that hardwood dust is finer than softwood dust [25]. Depending on the treatments to which wood has been subjected before machining, dust can contain preservatives, additives, or adhesives [30][31][32][33][34][35][36][37][38]. The greatest occupational risk is caused by the finest dust particles (inhalable fraction), which, when dispersed in the ambient air, can lead to serious short-term and long-term human health problems [39,40].…”